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Estevan’s summer evenings were alive with music and laughter as local performers took to the stage at Woodlawn Park for the city’s open mic nights. Hosted by Samantha Ellis, manager at Michael’s Coffee Shop and Bakery, the events offered a chance for residents to gather, showcase their talents, and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.
“This summer, it was nice to be out in Woodlawn,” Ellis said. “We had a really good turnout, lots of different performances.”
The open mic nights featured both returning performers and newcomers. Adam Shirley, who previously worked on a cruise line, engaged the crowd with an interactive group activity, while Betty McGillivray read from her book, captivating the audience with her storytelling. Samantha played fiddle alongside Dan Espelien on guitar, before Dan performed alongside his son Mavrik, who played the drums.
Kate from Diversified Services delighted attendees with her singing, performing a mix of Elvis and Shania Twain songs. “It’s nice to just see people in the community come out and lower their guard,” Ellis said. “Just get up in front of a microphone and share their talents.”
Ellis explained that the open mics offered a different experience from the coffee shop’s regular gigs. “We’ve got a lot of people who are camping there, so it feels almost like you’re at camp for a minute. It’s just outdoors, playing music, and enjoying the nice community of Estevan.”
The idea for the events came from Ellis’s experience in Nova Scotia, where she hosted weekly open mic nights at a coffee shop. “It only recently became what it is now, like in the last two years, Dan (Daniel Espelien form the SUN 102) has really come on and supported what I’ve been trying to get started here,” Ellis said.
The emphasis at the open mic nights is on participation, regardless of skill level or experience. “Anything goes,” Ellis said. “We’ve had freestyle rap, poetry, any musical instrument, even straight-up karaoke. It’s just a fun activity.”
Looking ahead, Ellis encourages more community members to take part. “We do it once a month. You can sign up day of or message our coffee shop Facebook page,” she said. “It’s a great way to try something new and connect with others in Estevan.”
The open mic nights have become a highlight of Estevan’s summer, offering a welcoming space for performers and audiences alike. With each event, new talents emerge and familiar faces return, making it a celebration of creativity and community spirit. Samantha Ellis encourages everyone to come out, take the stage, or simply enjoy the show.